Singled Out

Story: 4.5 ⭐️s
Narration: 5 ⭐️s

The first book in Knupp’s new series set in the previously well-established Dragonfly Lake more firmly introduces the single dad posse she teased in Knox’s book (the final Henry Bros. book - though you do not have to have read that series to enjoy this one). The first single dad up is Max, former pro-football player, now math teacher and coach. He meets his match in Harper, an artist and the daughter of his principal boss.

Both MCs are dealing with grief after a loss, so there are some fine moments throughout that meaningfully showcase those struggles. Though both have a similar loss, they are at different points in that journey, and offer each other valuable perspective. Harper sees herself as without purpose, while Max has an ultimate purpose in his son, Danny - and they both need balance. Right from their meet cute at a bachelor auction there is great chemistry which continues to grow at an appealing pace. They initially have a purely sexual relationship, but of course they both can’t help but catch feelings. It’s enjoyable to see that happen because they make a great pair.

I really enjoyed Harper’s character arc, and seeing how she came into her own after being a little bit at sea. (She was consistently sure about what she didn’t want, and when she realizes what she actually does want, it’s pretty great.) As always, Knupp has established some great secondary characters that the listener hopes will take center stage in future installments. Max’s dad posse is a given, but Harper’s friends are also fun, and I hope to see more of them. While Naomi’s brother, Ian isn’t part of the single dad roster (so far), I still really want to know more about him! Maybe he and Dakota had a connection? Here’s hoping someday!

While I love a single parent story, I don’t enjoy the age-gap trope - and especially since it just happened in Knox’s story its presence felt a little redundant. However, because really jived with these characters and had fun being back in the Dragonfly Lake world, I was mostly able to ignore it. I just hope that particular trope disappears for a bit as the series continues.

The audiobook was fan-tab-ulous ! Sebastian York and Erin Mallon are total pros, and are perfectly matched to each other, as well as to their characters. They bring their audio A game, adding their consistent charm and affability as performers to the story. Audios like this make it obvious why they are among the best in the narration business. ❤️🎧

Another wholeheartedly recommended listen and I can’t wait for the next!

Many thanks to Home Cooked Books for an ALC copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.

Great love story! Loved the characters.

Loved the story of Max and Harper and their families. Kept me entertained from beginning to end. Look forward to reading more from this author.